Munster Rugby Chief Executive Officer Garrett Fitzgerald has confirmed that he will retire from the role next month.
Fitzgerald is the longest-serving provincial chief executive, having been in the job since 1999.
In his 20-years at the helm, Munster has collected three Pro rugby titles and won two Heineken Cups and says he'll leave Thomond Park with great memories.
"I look back on my time in Munster Rugby with the fondest of memories, I have experienced fantastic days, working with great people in a unique environment, and for this I am very grateful.
"I would like to thank my wife Áine and family, without their support over the past 20 years none of this would have been possible."
"A strong identity and unique culture are two of Munster Rugby’s greatest assets, and with the ever-changing rugby landscape it is this culture and a shared belief system that sees the province consistently thrive at the highest level.
"I believe harnessing all that is good about Munster Rugby will lead to future success for the province, and I look forward to seeing the brand and organisation continue to go from strength to strength."
Chairman of the Munster Rugby Board, Gerry O’Shea says the outgoing CEO has earned his retirement.
“On behalf of Munster Rugby I would like to wish Garrett a very happy retirement with his wife Áine and family.
“Garrett was the province’s first CEO, and brought Munster Rugby through the fledgling professional era".
“Thank you for 20 years of outstanding commitment and service to Munster and Irish rugby, and from the people of Munster, we say – well done Garrett.”
IRFU chief executive Philip Browne has thanked Fitzgerald for his stewardship of the Reds.
"Since his appointment in 1999 Garrett has transformed Munster Rugby, he has succeeded in keeping the very best of the amateur era and ethos at the club, while building it into a professional sports club that is the envy of many throughout the rugby world."
Phillip Quinn will continue as interim CEO until the IRFU recruit Fitzgerald's full-time successor.
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